Friends of Burgau Sports Centre

WORDS Martyn Torr

Plans are moving swiftly forward for a big birthday in Burgau, celebrating 39 years of the iconic sports centre. Working with the Robinson family, which has owned and operated the multi-sport facility since its opening, the Friends of BSC are planning a May Day celebration.

On 1 May, there will be live music around the pool, the newly refurbished and renovated BBQ will be serving hot, delicious food and all the groups that use the facilities – from dance and fitness to Pilates and health and well-being – will be offering demonstrations. 

This will be the culmination of a week of celebrations for the Robinson family, with owner Andy’s 75th on 28 April, with wife Judy’s birthday 24 hours later and their youngest son Sam’s on 31 April.

May Day will showcase the new look of the sports centre, which now offers, in addition to tennis and squash, which have been on offer for almost four decades, three padel courts, pickleball and table tennis, not to mention indoor games such as pool and darts. On May Day, there will be demonstrations and opportunities to try some new exciting innovations – all free of charge.

Pickleball has been introduced three afternoons a week at the explicit behest of the growing North American community in the western Algarve. A form of short tennis played outdoors with padels instead of string racquets, pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America.

The state-of-the-art padel courts represent a significant investment for the family business, but already the far-sightedness of coach Dan Robinson is paying off with increasing numbers booking the facilities.

In addition to the growing number of activities, the Friends of BSC is continuing its busy and varied programme of social events, the latest being a Ladies’ Night to celebrate International Ladies’ Day. This was so successful the 50 ladies who partied late into the night are already planning a follow-up event.

A pre-loved market at the centre was such a success the kitchen and cafe ran out of supplies and another is being planned. Also on the calendar is a wine-tasting event on Friday 7 April, followed by a music quiz on Friday 14 April. A second open mic night is being scheduled in response to popular demand. 

A new children’s play area is nearing completion to complement the renovations and painting, which have been ongoing for 12 months.

Friends Of Burgau Sports Centre Group

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Reddit

Share this edition

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
WhatsApp
Email